Cuddled together on the sofa I peered at him. “I hope your sister likes me,” I said, changing the subject.
He touched my hair, stroking it. “She will love you, just as I do, my mate.”
Leaning back, I looked at Orin, my handsome warrior. “I know the two of you are close, and I don’t want her to be angry that I took you away from her.”
Orin took my hand in one of his and covered it with the other. “You took me from no one. She is happy I have found my K’sha. And I suspect she and her mate are relieved to have their privacy again.” He gave me a grin that told me he was sincere.
Since he claimed me and our bond was solidified, I could hear his thoughts when he left them unguarded or sent me messages. We also sensed one another’s emotions now more than ever. I loved my life with Orin. Every second of it.
He leaned down and kissed my forehead. “Our bond is stronger than any I share with my sister. The mate bond is unlike all others. And I will always protect you.”
I grinned. “I know you will, my love.”
TREX AND GRACE ARRIVEDfirst, followed shortly after by Orin’s sister and her mate, Vrek.
She was just as beautiful as Orin was handsome, and their resemblance confirmed their relation. I was surprised I hadn’t noticed it the first time I saw her. It might have saved me some tears if I had.
She hugged me, something I hadn’t expected. Yet it made me feel relaxed immediately. It felt as if we’d been friends for years.
“It is good to meet my brother’s K’sha. Welcome to our tiny family.” She bowed her head and offered me a wrapped package.
“Thank you. I’m also glad to meet you,” I said, trying not to feel insignificant next to the tall, lithe female.
Her lush dark-brown hair was plaited and showed off her pointed ears and high cheekbones.
Orin was chatting to Latza’s mate with his arm around my shoulder. I could feel pride emanating from him.
His sister pointed to the package I was holding as we continued to stand just inside our apartment door. “If you like the fabric, I am happy to sew some clothing for you and the newyoungling. Speaking of which, where is she? May I meet her?” She grinned from ear to ear.
Thankfully Nala had slept quite a bit during the day, so I didn’t mind waking her to meet her new Aunt.
“Of course.... she’s resting, but I will get her. Thank you for the gift. Orin mentioned you are a seamstress. I can’t sew for the life of me.”
Latza’s eyes rounded and I chuckled, waving my hand. “It’s a human expression.”
Orin grinned. “You will get used to them,” he said, rubbing my back.
His sister smiled. “I’d be honored to make you anything you like.”
When everyone was seated in the main room, I went to get Nala from her crib. She fussed until I passed her to her aunt Latza who gazed at her, besotted. “Vrek and I are pleased to welcome you, Nala.” She looked over at me. “She is beautiful and precious. It warms my heart to know Alara will be enriched by younglings once more.”
I smiled. It was clear she didn’t mind that Nala wasn’t Alaran. She must have read my expression because she added. “I understand she is human, but she is still family. And you are my new sister.” She gave me the warmest smile. “Anytime you want someone to look after her, just ask. I would love to spend time with her.”
Grace chose that moment to pipe. “It looks like you won’t lack for babysitters.” She looked at me and I grinned.
“It’s great.” I laughed.
Latza’s joy was evident as she sat taller, speaking to Nala before looking over at me. “You should drop in with Nala and visit us at our home.”
“I’d like that.”
Orin interrupted, his voice deep and growly. “She won’t be going anywhere without me escorting her and Nala. And only when it is safe.”
“Things are much calmer out there now, with new technology in place to monitor for cloaked ships. You told me no one has tried to enter our airspace for weeks,” I said to Orin.
He knew I spoke the truth, but his protectiveness prevailed. “I will take you to visit my sister. You have only to ask.”
I kissed his cheek. “Thanks.”
